A newly released F-35 crash investigation concluded that ice in hydraulic lines disabled landing gear systems, leading to January’s destructive Eielson Air Force Base accident. Investigators found the fighter’s nose landing gear malfunctioned mid-flight, forcing the pilot into lengthy discussions with Lockheed Martin experts and military leadership.
During two attempted touch-and-go landings, ice formed in the main landing gear struts, causing incomplete extension and compounding the emergency. That malfunction tricked onboard sensors into believing the jet was grounded, automatically switching into ground mode and making aerial control impossible.
The pilot ejected successfully, sustaining only minor injuries, while the $196.5 million F-35 exploded dramatically on the base, witnessed by civilians. Leading the accident board, Col Micheal Lewis concluded that repeated touch-and-go attempts contributed significantly to the uncontrollable situation and ultimate ejection.
Lewis noted that Lockheed Martin had previously warned in 2024 about similar sensor failures and suggested that earlier recognition could have prevented the catastrophic loss. He argued that a controlled ejection or full stop landing should have replaced the second touch-and-go manoeuvre attempted during the emergency.
Col Mathew Johnston, Commander of the 354th Fighter Wing, emphasized the report’s importance for readiness, stressing safety protocols and personnel prioritization. Jhonston affirmed that the wing will use the findings to strengthen procedures while balancing operational missions with the responsibility to protect community safety.
Public Affairs for the 345th Fighter Wing confirmed they are reviewing maintenance practices, reinforcing standards and enhancing aircraft reliability for future missions. The office pledged to apply investigation lessons toward inspections, training improvements and operational adjustments, safeguarding airmen and sustaining combat readiness.
Investigators also blamed poor hydraulic barrel documentation, which obscured when water entered the fluids, substantially contributing to ice formation and system failure. Lewis praised the pilot and team for managing an unprecedented technical challenge unseen previously in global F-35 operations despite these faults.
